August has always felt like a sacred pause - one foot still savoring the warmth of summer, the other inching towards the structure and relative busyness that fall brings. It’s a time when everything seems to slow just enough to catch our breath. And maybe, to notice something we’ve overlooked.

This year, I’m thinking a lot about awe.

Yes, awe; the kind that stops you mid-step or softens your thinking for a moment. Maybe it’s the stretch of a glorious sunset, the witnessing of a child's first step, or a conversation that shifts your perspective. These small experiences of wonder aren’t just poetic, they’re powerful. Research shows that awe can lower stress, reduce inflammation, and even improve how our hearts respond to daily demands.

Often, we focus our attention on the physical aspects of health: nutrition, exercise, and sleep. Of course, these matter deeply. But there’s something about awe that reconnects us to what makes life feel meaningful—and that’s worth making space for.

As we start to round the corner into fall, I invite you to pause, just for a few moments, to think about the last time you experienced awe. Is it time to create more opportunities for wonder in your life?

At Osher, we see healing as more than just solving problems. It's about feeling whole. And sometimes, wholeness begins with a moment that takes your breath away.

Wishing you a peaceful, awe-filled August,

Melinda Ring, MD

Tina Trott Professor of Integrative Health

Executive Director, Osher Center

www.drmelindaring.com

Fascia & Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

A recent narrative review in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences examined fascia’s contribution to Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS).

Fascia, the densely innervated connective tissue surrounding muscles, nerves, and organs, appears to play a critical role in chronic pain. Evidence suggests it contributes to neuroinflammation, fibrotic stiffening, and autonomic dysfunction, all of which may amplify pain, limit movement, and perpetuate symptoms in CRPS patients.

While initial imaging advances like sonoelastography show promise in assessing fascial health, therapeutic strategies that target fascia, such as manual release and specific movement practices, have emerged as potential interventions. Still, further clinical trials are necessary to confirm effective treatment approaches.

Tips for Healthy Fascia:

💧 Stay Hydrated

Fascia relies on fluid-rich ground substance (hyaluronan) to remain pliable. Drinking enough water prevents tissue dryness and stiffness.

🧘 Move & Stretch Daily

Gentle movement like yoga or mobility work keeps fascia elastic and increases fluid flow. Stand, stretch, or walk regularly, especially during sedentary work.

🌀 Use Myofascial Release Tools & Massages

Foam rolling, massage balls, or percussive devices (e.g., Theragun) can reduce fascial adhesions and boost circulation when incorporated into your routine. Also, seeing a qualified myofascial massage therapist can be highly beneficial. Schedule one today with one of our Osher Clinic massage therapists!

🍃 Eat an Anti-Inflammatory Diet

Choose leafy greens, nuts, seeds, and plant-based proteins to fight inflammation. Magnesium-rich foods (like whole grains and legumes) support fascia flexibility.

🔥 Apply Heat & Practice Good Posture

Heat therapy (e.g., warm baths, heating pads) helps relax tight fascia. Pair this with mindful posture to support fascia health and mobility.

Is the Oral Microbiome a New Determinant for Women’s Health?

A recent study in Microorganisms examines how the oral microbiome—an ecosystem of ~1,000 microbial species—impacts female reproductive health, including conditions like endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and pregnancy outcomes such as preterm birth.

Evidence links poor oral health and microbial imbalances (oral dysbiosis) with infertility-related conditions. The study also notes that during pregnancy, shifts in oral microbial communities, such as increased P. gingivalis, can further disrupt immune and reproductive health.

The study also suggests that oral dysbiosis contributes to systemic inflammation or microbial translocation, thereby affecting fertility and maternal health outcomes. Improving oral hygiene and considering oral-microbiome-targeted interventions are recommended as integrative strategies for reproductive care.

Tips for a Healthy Oral Microbiome:

🪥 Brush & Floss Daily

Keeping plaque in check prevents the overgrowth of harmful bacteria linked to inflammation and systemic effects.

🚰 Stay Hydrated

Drinking water maintains saliva flow, which helps flush bacteria and supports a balanced microbial ecosystem.

🥦 Choose Fermented Foods

Eat fermented foods like yogurt, kimchi, or kombucha daily. These foods introduce beneficial bacteria that may help crowd out harmful oral microbes.

🦠 Consider Oral Probiotics

Products like probiotic lozenges or rinses can help restore microbial balance; look for evidence-based strains.

🚭 Avoid Tobacco Products

Smoking and vaping disrupt the oral microbiome, reduce saliva production, and encourage the growth of harmful bacteria- impacting both oral and systemic health.

🪥 Maintain Regular Dental Care

Schedule routine cleanings, especially before pregnancy, to reduce harmful oral bacteria and support reproductive health.

Discover: Chicago Marathon Runner, Ruth Chepng'etich Suspended After Positive Doping Test

Ruth Chepng'etich’s suspension marks a significant moment in elite sports, raising concerns about fairness in competition.

Dr. Melinda Ring’s insights help explain not only why hydrochlorothiazide is used, but also why such high concentrations trigger serious suspicion rather than accidental intake.

Find out about it, here.

Celebrate: Cara Feldman-Hunt Named Director of UVM’s Osher Center for Integrative Health

The University of Vermont Osher Center for Integrative Health has appointed Cara Feldman‑Hunt, MA, NBC‑HWC, as its new Director. Cara brings extensive experience in integrative medicine, wellness coaching, and organizational development.

We congratulate Cara for this amazing achievement!



Read more, here.

Listen: Next Level Health

Next Level Health explores the intersection of science, storytelling, and integrative medicine.

As we gear up for the launch of Season 3 on September 8, 2025, now is the perfect time to revisit our current episodes and gain inspiration and context for what’s ahead.

Don’t miss the stories and strategies that are shaping the future of health—rewatch, reflect, and get ready.

Tune in, here, to learn more.